Palace to gov’t agencies: Halt SONA preps, focus on flood response

Photo courtesy: Marikina PIO

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos | Philippine News Agency

MalacaƱang on Tuesday ordered the suspension of all preparations for the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

This was after the Chief Executive expressed dismay over reports that some government personnel were installing SONA-related materials in public spaces, despite heavy rains that caused massive flooding in Metro Manila and many parts of the country.

ā€œThe President is dismayed by reports that government personnel are putting up SONA-related materials in public areas while many communities are battling heavy flooding,ā€ Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said in a statement.

ā€œLet me be clear: all SONA-related preparations are hereby ordered immediately suspended.ā€

Bersamin instructed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and all concerned agencies to redirect their ā€œfull attention and exclusive focusā€ on flood response and relief operations.

ā€œThe President’s directive is to focus all efforts on ensuring the safety and welfare of the Filipino people, especially during times of crisis. All government agencies are expected to act accordingly,ā€ he said.

While in the United States for a three-day official visit, President Marcos has directed all concerned agencies to prepare for the severe weather conditions and ensure the safety of affected communities.

In a recorded video message on Tuesday (Manila time), he ordered key government agencies, including the DPWH, to coordinate closely and work together in delivering timely assistance in light of the widespread flooding caused by the enhanced southwest monsoon. (PNA)

Popular

PBBM to soldiers: Serve the citizenry, protect the homeland

By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet ā€œPanata ito ng katapatan sa tungkulin at paninindigan para sa bayan.ā€ At the oath-taking ceremony of 29 newly promoted generals and flag...

Gov’t assures prompt aid to Cebu quake victims

By Brian Campued Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to provide immediate relief to families and individuals affected by the magnitude 6.9...

PBBM assures sustained gov’t support to calamity-hit Masbate

By Brian Campued President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday assured the public that the government will continue to provide various forms of assistance to...

ICI follows evidence, not manipulated for political gain —Palace told Escudero, VP Sara

By Brian Campued The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) remains ā€œindependentā€ and only follows evidence and is not controlled for political gain amid its probe...